Muscat: A top Oman Football Association (OFA) official yesterday revealed that an Omani businessman is interested in taking over English championship side Reading FC.

The English media is abuzz with the speculations of Reading takeover by investors from the Sultanate.

Speaking to Times Sport yesterday, the OFA official confirmed the news saying: "Yes an Omani businessman is interested but we do not want to reveal the identity of the individual who is interested as it may hamper the deal."

"Once the deal is finalised then we will be able to give more details," he said.

However, the OFA official is not sure whether the Omani businessman is trying to buy the entire club or a major share of the club.

"It will be good for Oman football if this deal come through. It will certainly give a huge lift to the development of the game in this country," he added.

Meanwhile, the Reading Post reported 'the group behind the bid for the club have the backing of some of the Arab state's Royal family'.

The report also said the OFA, who Reading have strong links with, are helping progress the talks but are not thought to be involved in the consortium itself.

There has been speculation that a deal has been agreed, but sources inside the club deny this and do not expect anything to be concluded this week.

Similar to a rival bid from an American consortium , the offer on the table from Oman is for 100 percent control, not just Anton Zingarevich's 51 percent share.

Reading have built up links with Oman in recent years and are partners with the OFA in the Kickworldwide Outreach Programme in Sohar.